I’m crossing my fingers, pre-results, that Nile Ethiopian takes the Readers’ Picks crown this year so that together we can give it a double birthday present, because 2026 marks 20 years in business for this wonderful, colorful, humble and no-doubt flavorful slice of I-Drive’s unbelievable, under-the-radar dining scene. Nile is a lasting pioneer among loads of smaller, less glitzy, family-run businesses in the tourist zone and I am grateful that both visitors and fervent locals have kept the injera bubbling at Abeba Gonetse’s lovely little spot. Look for an official story later this year.
And while you’re at it, look outside the theme park zone for additional options, like last year’s winner: Yene Romay. And Ethiopian-Eritrean regular in this section, Selam.
Critic’s Choice
Winner: Nile Ethiopian Cuisine, 7048 International Drive in Orlando, 407-354-0026; nileorlando.com
Runners-up: Selam Ethiopian & Eritrean Cuisine in Orlando and Yene Romay Ethiopian Kitchen, food truck
Readers’ Choice
Winner: Boma – Flavors of Africa, 2901 Osceola Parkway in Lake Buena Vista
Runners-up: Nile Ethiopian Cuisine in Orlando and Jiko – The Cooking Place in Lake Buena Vista
2026 Foodie Awards: Click here to see all the winners!
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